By Baylee Rich
Seniors Brylie Tuttle and Addie Phillippe have been inseparable since Addie transferred from Alexandria High School her freshman year. Now, with graduation creeping up on them, they’ve found themselves facing the heartfelt reality of soon being 16 hours apart.
But no matter the distance, their friendship has been stronger than ever and they believe they will alway stay connected.
While most friendships begin in childhood, or from years spent in school together, theirs began in an unusual way.
“I found out Addie was moving here from Alexandria and Kylie Johnson, my volleyball coach, told me to text her and welcome her because she thought we would be good friends,” Brylie said. “At first we were somewhat friends, but we’ve experienced so many ups and downs in volleyball which made us even closer.”
The tight bond the girls formed in their early high school years carried on into their senior year.
Staying friends with the same person throughout high school is uncommon these days, but for Brylie and Addie, their friendship stayed strong.
“Having a best friend that’s like a sister to me throughout high school has been really special,” Addie expressed. “She always knew it was my intent to go far and go out of state. When I committed to Polk State in Florida she was very supportive.”
Even with the support, the distance was hard to face. With Brylie going to Ball State, Addie heading to Florida, and being over 1,000 miles apart, it makes the goodbye bittersweet.
“She (Brylie) was sad knowing that we’re going to be far away, but she’s been here with me through it all,” Addie said.
But more than anything, Brylie was so happy for her friend.
“I’m really happy for Addie,” Brylie said. “Playing college volleyball and living in Florida has always been a goal of hers.”
With graduation so close, Brylie and Addie are starting to feel how much things are about to change. Even though they’ll miss seeing each other every day, they know their friendship will stay strong.
“I plan to visit Addie and she plans to visit me also,” Brylie said. “My family and I plan to come down and watch some of her games, also.”
They’ve made so many great memories together and know they will always stay close, no matter how many miles are in between them..
